New River Gorge Bridge in the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, West Virginia

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A river runs through it

This incredible view is of the New River Gorge Bridge in the New River Gorge National Park and Preserve, in West Virginia. When completed in 1977, this bridge was the world’s highest bridge carrying a regular roadway. It held that distinction for 24 years and is now a popular attraction for BASE jumpers and rappelers.

Far below the bridge is the New River, which—despite its name—is the second oldest river in the world. Its exact age is unknown, but geologists believe the New River is a segment of the preglacial Teays River, which fossil evidence suggests could be 320 million years old. Today, rafters and kayakers come to ride the New River rapids, which can reach a level of Class V, which means they're among the most difficult waters to navigate.